Sala Ayutthaya

After the eye-catching streets of Ayutthaya, the hotel provides a cool and calming setting to put your feet up. At its centre is a lovely pool to cut through the heat of the day and the waterfront restaurant serves up a tantalising menu of tangy Thai classics and buttery seafood - don't miss out on the signature river prawns. There is also seating in the industrial-style dining room and the smooth-as-silk rooftop bar offers inventive cocktails over moonlit river views.

Each room has its own layout but you'll find the style quite similar with high ceilings, wooden detailing and sparkling white decor. The view is a unique factor, with a choice of the river, temples or tree-lined waterfront. The bathrooms have an edgy feel with glass-walled bathtubs and the king-sized beds have ornate black headboards embossed with gold tigers. There is one duplex suite with two bedrooms and a spacious deck, while the pool suite takes the top prize with a secluded plunge pool and oodles of privacy.

Step onto a remodelled rice barge to sail down the river, taking in grand temples and time-worn ruins before pausing at Thailand's original floating market for a taste of local cuisine. Get lost in the history of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site where tales of feuds, power and war surround you. Walk the trails of the Historical Park and see its striking temples, climb to the top of the erstwhile Royal Palace for an epic view of the city and cycle down alleyways to discover the charms of Ayutthaya on your own terms.